Singapore had its 15th straight month of negative inflation in January. But economics correspondent Chia Yan Min pointed out that core inflation, a better gauge of everyday expenses, is expected to rise gradually. This means Singapore has thus far avoided deflation, which is a much more serious economic woe. http://str.sg/Zyi8
By the deadline on Tuesday evening, 41 people had submitted applications for nine Nominated MP seats. Political reporter Charissa Yong said the NMP scheme offers Singaporeans another avenue for political participation and the number of applicants is a good sign. But it would be helpful if applicants' names were made public. http://str.sg/Zy4w
Engineers are in hot demand as the Government seeks to fill at least 236 positions in the civil service. Manpower reporter Aw Cheng Wei noted that more attractive salaries and better career paths are being offered, which help retain talents in the sector, but productivity needs to be watched to ensure wages are not inflated in a tight labour market. http://str.sg/ZCFW
It is a huge step for the British, but Singapore businesses have little to fear from a Brexit, business correspondent Grace Leong wrote, as Brexit fears sent the pound falling to 21/2-year lows against the Singapore dollar. A weaker European Union, however, will have an impact on Singapore and Asia as it is one of their biggest investment and trading partners. http://str.sg/ZCHw
Labour MP Zainal Sapari caused a furore recently when he blamed cheap outsourcing for depressing the pay of low-wage workers. Manpower correspondent Toh Yong Chuan said Mr Zainal's blog post puts a needed spotlight on the link between costs and wages in labour-intensive, low-wage jobs. http://str.sg/ZCRt